Monday, October 31, 2011

West Coast Trip

For the third time in six years, I was treated to a trip to California for work, where there is an annual Wining & Dining event. In the past Shaun has gone with us, but this year we hired a new employee and so I had a new roommate.

Because we work remotely, I hadn't spent much time with her outside of the interview process so it was good that we got some time together. In the midst of getting to know her, I was also able to see myself through her eyes. A couple things I came away with...things I already knew, but were pointed out or accentuated from a new perspective

I fall asleep fast

I sleep soundly...anywhere

I am obnoxious with my camera

I am better at directions than some

I don't worry about a whole lot

We left from Boston so we could have a direct flight. Since we were flying West, we had a sunset for well over an hour. I did get some work done on the plane but I also did lots of looking out the window. I could not get America the Beautiful out of my head!

The next day we hit meetings early and all day. In the evening they had a reception on the 32nd floor and I enjoyed yet another sunset.

In between the reception and dinner, my sister and I walked around Union Square for a bit. This is the Westin where we stayed.

The SF Women's Marathon was the same weekend...it was fun to be among the race "buzz".

We were treated to a posh dinner and ended up with a very entertaining, pleasant table of eight. The next morning was breakfast, back up on the sunny 32nd floor.

My sister and brother-in-law (and boss).

While Colombo went golfing, Amy, Pat and I went on one of the several excursions offered. First stop...Golden Gate Bridge

After an "adventurous" bus ride weaving through the mountainside, we arrived at Muir Woods. It was 75 and sunny everyday we were there and all the natives kept telling us what unusual weather it was. I just thought it was perfect.

We stopped in Salsalido for a three-course lunch over looking the water, on the water.

We did a little window shopping before hopping back on the bus.

We finished the day with an awards banquet. Colombo got special recognition for his achievements...its such an honor to be associated with him and his company....he is highly loved and respected among his peers.

The next day the event was officially over, but we opted to take the red-eye out so we could spend the day in the city. In true Lisa fashion, we got lost walking down to the pier. When I finally called Shaun in CT and told him where we were, he was flabbergasted....and that takes a lot cause he knows me so well. :) BUT, we got to see lots more of the city (on foot) that way and it was a beautiful day to be wandering.

SF Giants stadium.

Once we got to Pier 39, they had a huge farmer's market, where we taste-tested many varieties of fresh fruit and bought some for the ride home.

Then we had to get back to the hotel, on foot. That meant more "exploring" the city. :)

I took this picture for my BIL. I don't know a thing about cars, but this one, with a wood interior, must be cool to someone. :)

We flew out at 10:15 with no issues. It was a memorable trip and I feel so blessed to have been able to go. Also so incredibly blessed to have such a competent husband and father. Shaun runs things even better than I do around here and I have his full support in all my endeavors.

This is what the LORD Almighty says: “Many peoples and the inhabitants of many cities will yet come,and the inhabitants of one city will go to another and say, ‘Let us go at once to entreat the LORD and seek the LORD Almighty. I myself am going.’

About Me

I am married to the man of my dreams, my best friend, and together we have two little girls and a boy. My desire is that this blog and my everyday life will bring glory to God.
I thank God for all I've been given at the end of everyday...I have been blessed.